Hurricane Preparedness: Protect your family and home
theweathernetwork.com
Wednesday, July 11, 2018, 7:23 AM - Residents living in hurricane-prone areas must have an emergency route mapped out and supplies ready at all times -- but especially during the hurricane season.
To help keep you and your family safe this season, the National Hurricane Center presents some helpful tips below.
SEE ALSO: Emergency Preparedness - tips on how to prepare for and survive natural disasters
PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT
An emergency preparedness kit should include water (2-4 litres per person), canned goods, can opener, a First Aid kit, batteries, flashlight, medication, personal documentation, a battery-operated radio, blankets and toilet paper. It's also a good idea to have spare house and car keys. Put aside some cash in small bills and coins, which would be especially useful if ATMs or debit card machines stop working.
Leave your emergency kit by the door in case you need to “grab it and go.”
GET TO HIGHER GROUND
When a hurricane or powerful storm is hitting, people in low-lying coastal areas should stay over with family or friends who live on higher grounds. It's also important to keep away from the water.
AROUND THE HOUSE
With high winds and rain, homeowners are urged to trim loose branches. Make sure there's no debris that could be blown away through the high winds. The time before a storm is also a great opportunity to put lawn furniture away and ensure that items outside of your house are secure. Some other good ideas include making a list of contact information of family members, health providers, employers. While you're at it, move your vehicle away from trees, which could topple over. It is also advised that you clear your drains and make sure your windows are closed.
FAMILY AND PETS
Every family is unique, and has different needs. A family with young children needs to think of ways to keep its smallest members occupied if the lights go out. A board game could do the trick. Stock up on any medication you might need, whether it is over-the-counter or prescription, and get an extra pair of eyeglasses, if possible.
Just as you need to have food and water for yourself, you also need to provide those essentials for your pets. Be sure to keep them inside during stormy weather.
SUGGESTED DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT
- Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation * Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
